On Tuesday 12th January, Charles Walker, the MP for Broxbourne, used his first speech in Parliament after the Christmas break to raise the issue of mental health advocacy.

PCTs around the country will need to have independent mental health advocacy services in place by April 2009. Organisations such as the NHS Confederation, Mind and Rethink are concerned that the tendering process could be rushed through. Mr Walker raised issues such as the amount of money allocated for training, how PCTs will choose advocacy services, and whether a recognised qualification in mental health advocacy will be available.

MPs were debating mental health advocacy as part of the ongoing discussions surrounding the impact of the Mental Health Act 2007, which became law in November 2008.

The Act contains controversial new powers to detain and treat people with mental health problems against their will. MPs from all parties raised concerns about many aspects of the Act, and ensured that safeguards appeared alongside the new powers of detention. Anyone being detained against their will because of mental health problems has the right to an independent advocate.

A full transcript of Mr Walker’s speech can be found on his website – click below.

Viewpoint webteam

SOURCE: Charles Walker MP